OpenAI Launches Math Advisory Group After AI Solves Over 100 Open Problems
OpenAI has formed an independent advisory group of mathematicians at Princeton's Institute for Advanced Study after its AI reportedly solved more than 100 open math problems. The move follows criticism from leading mathematicians over the rapid pace of such announcements.
OpenAI announced on Monday the creation of a new independent advisory group based at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey. Named the Advisory Group on Mathematics and Artificial Intelligence, the body is intended to give mathematicians greater input into the company's math-focused research. According to OpenAI, the group will act as a bridge between the company and the mathematical community, giving mathematicians a voice in shaping the company's direction in this area.
The announcement follows the sudden publication of a solution to the Navier-Stokes Millennium Prize problem. Alongside the formation of the new group, OpenAI also stated that the same internal model has resolved more than 100 additional open problems spanning most areas of mathematics.
Criticism from mathematicians
Many prominent mathematicians have voiced concern over the rapid pace at which these results are being released. Earlier this month, 25 Fields Medal-winning mathematicians signed an open letter arguing that AI companies, in racing to outdo one another on famous math problems, are threatening the intellectual work of mathematicians.
An advisory, not a steering, role
The new group will primarily serve an advisory function, assessing the significance of new results and coordinating their release. Members will not be paid, but they can offer unsolicited advice, speak publicly about their views, and control their own membership, giving them a degree of independence from OpenAI. However, the group will not have authority to slow down or redirect OpenAI's ongoing mathematical research — the company stated explicitly that the group will not be responsible for advising on the pace of its internal progress.
The Institute for Advanced Study echoed this in its own statement, noting that it holds no decision-making power at any AI company and that responsibility for a company's decisions rests with that company. Nine prominent mathematicians have been named as the group's initial members. Notably, only one of them, IAS's Camillo De Lellis, also signed the Fields Medalists' open letter.
